Multiple Sclerosis

By Sandra Doru

Living with multiple sclerosis (MS) can present unique challenges. However, with a well-thought-out care plan, individuals living with MS can continue to live independently within the comfort of their homes. Here we look at how live-in home care can adapt to meet changing needs as MS progresses.


Multiple Sclerosis and Its Impact
Multiple sclerosis is a chronic disease of the central nervous system that disrupts the flow of information between the brain and body. MS symptoms can vary widely and change over time, but commonly include fatigue, difficulty walking, numbness or tingling, muscle weakness, and problems with coordination and balance. As MS progresses, particularly in older adults, the disease's effects can become more profound, potentially affecting a person's ability to live independently.

The Need for Live-In Home Care
Recognising the changes that come with MS is the first step in understanding the need for live-in home care. As the disease progresses, tasks once taken for granted - such as cooking, cleaning, and even moving around the house - may become increasingly challenging.

 This is where live-in home care plays an essential role. Live-in care involves a caregiver staying in the home to provide assistance throughout the day, offering support that cover various aspects of daily living, including personal care, medication management, mobility assistance, and emotional support. This not only allows the individual to remain in their familiar environment but also provides them with the help they need to maintain a high quality of life.

Building a Tailored Care Plan
Every person with MS experiences the disease differently, which means that care plans must be personalised. Initially, the focus may be on assisting with household chores, ensuring proper nutrition, and aiding in physical activities to maintain mobility and strength. The caregiver can also assist with medication management, ensuring that the person is taking their medication correctly and on time.

However, as MS progresses, the care plan must adapt. Mobility assistance may become more central to the care provided. This might involve helping the individual move around the house safely, assisting with transfers from bed to chair, or providing aid during bathing and dressing.

Maintaining Mental and Emotional Well-being
MS isn't only about physical health. The disease can take a significant emotional toll, leading to feelings of anxiety, depression, and isolation. Therefore, live-in caregivers also provide companionship and emotional support, engaging the person in conversation, activities, and hobbies they enjoy. This emotional support can be particularly important in later stages of the disease when mobility issues may limit social interaction.

Adapting to Progressive Needs
As MS progresses, the individual may experience more severe symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, cognitive changes, or increased fatigue. At this stage, the caregiver's role becomes even more critical, offering intensive support tailored to the person's evolving needs. This might include assistance with eating and drinking, providing mental stimulation activities to support cognitive function, or ensuring rest periods to manage fatigue.

Engaging Health Professionals
Even with live-in care, the support of health professionals remains crucial. Regular check-ups are key to monitoring the progression of MS and adjusting treatment as necessary. Physical therapists can provide targeted exercises to maintain mobility as long as possible, while occupational therapists can suggest home modifications to make the environment safer and more comfortable. A live-in carer can be central to coordinating these things.

Tailored 1-1 Support
While MS can pose significant challenges, the right support can enable individuals to remain in their homes as their disease progresses. A comprehensive, adaptable care plan, provided by a live-in caregiver, can help manage both the physical and emotional effects of MS. This care, coupled with ongoing medical support, allows individuals to maintain their independence and quality of life, even in the face of a challenging disease like multiple sclerosis.

If you’d like to know more about the process of setting up live-in care, read our article on How Live-In Care Works